Creamy Chicken Broccoli Bake Recipe: Comfort Food at Its Finest

Comfort comes calling with this creamy chicken broccoli bake that promises warmth in every single bite.

Weeknight dinners demand simple yet satisfying solutions that don’t compromise on flavor.

Tender chicken pieces nestled perfectly among bright green broccoli florets create a delightful medley of textures and tastes.

Cheesy, golden-brown topping adds a crisp layer that makes this dish irresistibly good.

The combination of lean protein and fresh vegetables ensures a balanced meal everyone will love.

Minimal prep work means you can have this hearty casserole on the table in under an hour.

Gather around and savor each comforting, cheesy spoonful of this classic family favorite.

Comfort in Every Bite: Chicken Broccoli Bake

• Whip Up Comfort: A one-dish wonder that combines tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and creamy sauce for a satisfying meal that hugs your taste buds.
• Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients or add extra seasonings to match your family's preferences, making this recipe a flexible dinner solution for picky eaters.
• Quick Family Pleaser: Minimal prep work and simple ingredients mean you can have a delicious, wholesome dinner on the table without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Nutritious and Hearty: Packed with protein from chicken and vitamins from broccoli, this bake offers a balanced meal that keeps everyone full and happy.

All You Need for Chicken Broccoli Bake

• Chicken: A lean protein that provides the main substance and flavor of the casserole.

• Broccoli: A nutritious green vegetable that adds texture and health benefits to the dish.

• Cream of Chicken Soup: Creates a creamy, rich base that binds the ingredients together.
• Garlic Powder, Onion Powder: Provides depth and aromatic flavor to the entire dish.
• Salt, Pepper: Enhances and balances the overall taste of the casserole.

• Cheddar Cheese: Adds a sharp, melty layer of richness and golden color to the bake.
• Bread Crumbs: Offers a crispy, crunchy texture to the top of the casserole.

• Rice: A complementary side that can be served underneath the chicken broccoli bake.

Baking Chicken Broccoli Casserole from Scratch

Step 1: Fire Up The Oven

Crank your oven to a toasty 375°F and get ready for a delicious dinner adventure.

Step 2: Transform Broccoli

Steam those green florets until they’re perfectly tender and bright, creating a vibrant base for your dish.

Step 3: Create Flavor Magic

• Cream of chicken soup
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Salt
• Black pepper

Blend everything until smooth and fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Protein And Greens

Gently fold in shredded chicken and your steamed broccoli into the creamy mixture, ensuring every bite will be packed with flavor.

Step 5: Prepare The Baking Vessel

Transfer your delectable mixture into a baking dish, spreading it evenly for consistent cooking.

Step 6: Add Crispy Topping

Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese across the top, then dust with bread crumbs for an irresistible golden crunch.

Step 7: Bake To Perfection

Slide the dish into the preheated oven and let it bubble and brown for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden and edges are crispy.

Step 8: Serve And Enjoy

Optional: Serve this mouthwatering casserole over fluffy rice for an extra satisfying meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

How to Get Cheesy Layers in Chicken Broccoli Bake

• Sprinkle bread crumbs right before baking to maintain crispiness and avoid moisture absorption.
• Add a splash of white wine or lemon juice to the sauce for a more complex, bright taste profile.
• Pat chicken and broccoli dry before mixing to prevent excess liquid in the casserole.
• Swap bread crumbs for gluten-free panko or crushed almond flour crackers for a crispy alternative.
• Assemble the casserole earlier in the day and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve for enhanced flavor melding.

Creative Swaps for Chicken Broccoli Bake Dinners

• Gluten-Free Version: Replace bread crumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour. Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup to make the dish safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Low-Carb Alternative: Swap rice with cauliflower rice and use a low-carb cream soup substitute. Add extra vegetables like zucchini or spinach for more nutrition.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute cheddar cheese with nutritional yeast or dairy-free cheese alternative. Use coconut milk-based cream soup for a creamy texture without dairy.
• Vegetarian Adaptation: Replace chicken with firm tofu or plant-based chicken substitute. Add extra protein-rich ingredients like chickpeas or white beans to maintain nutritional balance.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Broccoli Bake Nights

• Comforting Family Dinner: Serve this hearty chicken broccoli bake with fluffy white rice to soak up the creamy sauce and create a complete meal.
• Veggie Side Boost: Add a fresh garden salad with crisp lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette to balance the rich, cheesy casserole.
• Bread Pairing Perfection: Warm garlic bread or crusty French bread works wonderfully for dipping and mopping up the delicious sauce from the bake.
• Nutritious Garnish: Sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or green onions on top for added color, flavor, and a touch of brightness to the dish.

Broccoli Bake Storage for Freshness and Flavor

• Place leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cool the dish completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Wrap tightly in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date to track freshness.
• Transfer a single serving to a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until thoroughly warm.

FAQs

• Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, the creamy texture and mild flavors make this chicken broccoli bake appealing to children. The cheese and bread crumbs add extra yumminess that kids typically enjoy.

• Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just thaw and drain frozen broccoli completely before adding to the mixture to prevent excess water in the dish.

• What type of chicken works best for this recipe?

Rotisserie chicken, leftover grilled chicken, or shredded chicken breast all work perfectly. The key is to have cooked, tender chicken pieces that mix well with the sauce.

• How can I make this recipe healthier?

Use low-fat cream of chicken soup, reduced-fat cheese, and whole wheat bread crumbs. You can also add extra vegetables like cauliflower or carrots to boost nutritional value.

Chicken Broccoli Bake Recipe

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4.6 from 36 reviews

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Creamy chicken broccoli bake brings comfort and flavor to dinner tables with its cheesy, hearty appeal. Perfectly balanced ingredients blend seamlessly, promising a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

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Proteins:

• 2 cups cooked chicken

Main Vegetables:

• 4 cups broccoli florets

Sauce and Topping Ingredients:

• 1 10.5 ounces (298 grams) condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 0.5 cup sour cream
• 0.5 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) melted butter

Seasoning Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon salt

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Instructions

1. Warm the oven to 375°F, preparing a cozy environment for the casserole.
2. Gently steam broccoli florets until they reach a vibrant, tender consistency.
3. Blend cream of chicken soup with aromatic garlic and onion powders, seasoning with salt and pepper for depth of flavor.
4. Fold tender chicken pieces and steamed broccoli into the creamy soup mixture, ensuring even coating.
5. Carefully transfer the combined ingredients into a prepared baking dish, spreading evenly.
6. Generously sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese across the surface, creating a golden blanket of flavor.
7. Optional: Dust the top with crispy bread crumbs for added textural contrast.
8. Slide the dish into the preheated oven, baking for 25-30 minutes until the cheese melts and edges turn golden brown.
9. Allow the casserole to rest briefly after removing from the oven to set the creamy interior.
10. Serve atop fluffy rice for a complete and satisfying meal.

Notes

• Perfectly steam broccoli to maintain its bright green color and crisp texture by cooking for only 3-4 minutes to prevent mushiness.
• Swap cream of chicken soup with Greek yogurt or homemade white sauce for a lighter, healthier version that reduces processed ingredients.
• Create a gluten-free option by using almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensuring all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
• Enhance protein content by adding quinoa or using rotisserie chicken for extra flavor and convenience without sacrificing nutritional value.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 395 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 700 mg
• Fat: 28 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
• Trans Fat: 0.3 g
• Carbohydrates: 12 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 27 g
• Cholesterol: 75 mg